| Abstract: | Breastfeeding, together with its two related postpartum variables--amenorrhea and abstinence--govern both the tempo and quantum of fertility in traditional African societies. Decline in breastfeeding also implies decline in postpartum amenorrhea and abstinence practice. Changes in breastfeeding practices in tropical Africa, therefore, has fertility implications and consequences. This paper examines how breastfeeding is functionally related to postpartum amenorrhea and abstinence in Ilorin, an urban community in Nigeria. Results indicated that the effect of breastfeeding on fertility, through its relationship with postpartum abstinence, might be more important than its effect through lactational amenorrhea in this society. This is more true among women with little or no education than among women with secondary or higher education. The population or family planning implications of these relationships are discussed. |
